Yesterday, the Euro-Arab Foundation hosted the presentation of the book Journey to Samarkand. Account of Ruy González de Clavijo’s Embassy to Tamerlane (1403–1406), organized by El Legado Andalusí Foundation. The presentation was led by Rafael López Guzmán, Professor at the University of Granada, coordinator of the work, and curator of the exhibition of the same name currently on display at the foundation’s headquarters in the Corral del Carbón.
During the event, Professor López Guzmán gave a lecture on the content of this research project, which involved numerous scholars. This edition is an enhanced reprint of the work originally published by El Legado Andalusí Foundation in 2009, featuring improved graphic design. The book recounts the journey commissioned by King Henry III of Castile, sending Ruy González de Clavijo to the court of the powerful and territorially expansive Uzbek emperor, Tamerlane. It captures a critical historical moment in Central Asia, marked by the decline of some empires and the rise of new ones, such as the Timurid Empire founded by Tamerlane.
The narrative explores the turbulent geopolitical landscape of the Eurasian region, including the Byzantine, Ottoman, Safavid and Mongol empires, as well as the complex commercial interests along the legendary Silk Road, offering valuable insights into a culturally significant era.
The book is structured around the different stages of Clavijo’s journey, from departure to arrival, with two chapters dedicated exclusively to the key cities of this period: Constantinople and Samarkand. The extensive illustrations enhance the work’s appeal, skillfully recreating cities of the past and providing visual narratives that connect the legendary history with the present.
For more information: Journey to Samarkand. Account of Ruy González de Clavijo’s Embassy to Tamerlane (1403-1406)
